Air Barriers

In recent years, air barrier systems are becoming a must for new construction or leak rehabilitation projects. Typical building wraps are made of paper or a composite type of wrap that may be moisture proof, but is not water proof. Further, wraps of this type are not impervious to vapor or airtight. Structures that are built with traditional building wraps provide shelter, but they are often substandard in terms of keeping the elements outn and keeping the climate-controlled air in.

With an air barrier, the building wrap and insulation system ties all other aspects together so that no gaps, joints, or seams exist at any transition. This coverage includes sealing the seams at doors and windows, at the deck to wall joint and where grade meets the wall, etc. The result is that the system creates an “airtight seal.” You can keep out the summer heat or winter chills, while also keeping in the air that you are paying to heat or cool with your HVAC system, as well as preserving a cleaner indoor environment on days when smog or other airborne particulates are polluting the outside air.

Air Barriers for Energy-Efficient Homes

Installing an air barrier makes it possible for you not only to enjoy a more comfortable indoor environment, but it can also save you thousands of dollars. To begin with, you can expect to see your energy bills drop steeply, since you will no longer be paying to heat or cool the entire neighborhood as the climate controlled air seeps out of the cracks in the structure. You may additionally qualify for LEED points which can be used for green building tax credits in many areas. Air barriers are an excellent solution in the mountainous areas of Kern, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, as well as in the deserts or coastal climates of Southern California. To learn more about how you can benefit from an air barrier and to receive an initial estimate on your project, contact WICR today.